Lehman College congratulates Andrew Cohen, the Bronx’s newest City Council member representing District 11, which includes the College. On January 5, Lehman hosted Mr. Cohen’s swearing-in ceremony in the historic Music Building’s Lovinger Theatre.

“As a product of New York City public schools, I believe a free or affordable education is one of the most important services we provide in our city,” said Mr. Cohen. “There is no more powerful or effective tool in fighting poverty than education. I will be on the front lines with our parents, teachers, and administrators.”

He also addressed parkland, homeless issues, development and land use, and social services.

Mr. Cohen, who officially took office January 1, succeeds Councilman Oliver Koppell. Mr. Cohen was introduced by N.Y. Assemblyman and Bronx County Democratic Committee Chairman Jeffrey Dinowitz, who said “Andy Cohen embodies what we’re talking about in progressive politics in New York. His commitment to jobs, to helping the homeless, creating better housing, the list goes on and on.”

The oath of office was administered by N.Y. Supreme Court Justice Edgar Walker. Rabbi Avi Weiss of the Hebrew Institute delivered the invocation and Father Richard Gorman delivered the benediction. Music was provided by the Celia Cruz High School Chorus and the Bronx Opera Company.

Before his election to the City Council in the 2013 municipal election, Mr. Cohen served as an attorney and adjunct professor at CUNY’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice. He previously served as a Court Attorney to a Bronx Supreme Court Justice and as Legal Counsel for Assemblyman Dinowitz.

Mr. Cohen lives in Riverdale with his wife Dr. Heather Erhard and their daughter Sarah.